A Blue and White Beach House by Phoebe and Jim Howard

February 17, 2017

During our last move, I got rid of most of my issues of Southern Accents… a decision I regret. Now defunct, Southern Accents is still my favorite interiors magazine. A friend lent me her July/August 2008 issue, and I loved revisiting this stunning blue and white beach house by Phoebe and Jim Howard. Located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, the beach house was designed to reflect their clients’ nautical interests and Charleston roots. Jim Howard oversaw the interior details from the moldings and the mantels to the floors and fixtures, while Phoebe was responsible for the furnishings. Using understated details, the Howards created a classic and comfortable home that is fitting of its surroundings without resorting to clichés.

“You can capture the feeling of the beach without direct reference to it,” Phoebe said. “You can do it with casual rugs, comfortable overstuffed furniture, less formal curtains, and mirrors, which keep things light and bright.” She saturated the house in a variety of blues reminiscent of the sea while Jim’s use of paneling and elaborate moldings pays homage to the antebellum homes of Charleston, creating a classic setting to complement the antiques.

For the daughter’s bedroom, Phoebe selected shades of turquoise “to make it younger, fresher, and a bit more whimsical,” she said. Reproduction sailors’ Valentines serve as a reminder of the beach just beyond the veranda. Fabrics by Quadrille.

The bath adjacent to the daughter’s bedroom features a custom mosaic floor and hand-painted mural. “We’re all about creating details that are different and unique,” said Jim.

French mahogany chairs and a black lacquer table add weight to the color palette.

Oh what a gorgeous house! Love the architectural detailing combined with all of the finer decorative pieces. Love the blue and white palette with turquoise! The sofas in the Living Room are so beautiful.

I've heard from my friend Louise how nice Ponte Vedra Beach is- her mother had a place there for many years.

My mentor the late, George Clarkson had his country house in Orange, VA published in Southern Accents, and it was on the cover as well! I was invited to spend the weekend there, but unfortunately that weekend coincided with my brothers wedding! Hated to miss it! LOL!